After years without adequate public transport, a new bus service is set to grace the streets of Bourke from 27 February.

The new pre-booked bus service to support residents moving throughout the town was announced by Minister for Regional Transport and Roads, Sam Farraway, who said  the bus service would provide an on-demand style transport service for travel within Bourke, to North Bourke, Alice Edwards Village and Bourke Airport.

“This is a win for this community that have been seeking better public transport options that is consistent, reliable, affordable and accessible,” said Mr Farraway.

“This new on-demand service will ensure that access to local shopping, social activities, important medical appointments, sporting engagements and employment is achievable and affordable for all.

“This service can also link with NSW TrainLink coaches to Dubbo, and to Bourke Airport where there’s a three-day-a-week return flight to Dubbo,” he said. 

The announcement was well-received by the Bourke community, who have been long crying out for an accessible transport.

“Better transport is a necessity due to the harsh contrast of weather conditions all year round, health conditions in the population, the ageing population and distances,” said Bourke Shire Council Mayor Barry Hollman.

“Having the opportunity to use a safe, reliable mode of transport at an affordable price will increase participation at social, educational and sporting events by the simple fact those events are more accessible.

“This new bus service will have positive outcomes for the residents and community of Bourke,” he said. 

Bourke resident Jodie Dickson said it had been eye opening when she moved from the Central Coast 14 months ago to see just how many people in Bourke don’t have cars to get to appointments or pick up supplies.

“Bourke is very remote. I work in the local pharmacy and there are services to pick up scripts - but not for everybody. The community here is quite disadvantaged, especially the elderly,” Mrs Dickson said.

“There are a lot of people who don’t have a car in Bourke, lots of people ride bikes or walk in the 42-degree heat. So this is a fantastic transport initiative,” she said. 

The new bus service will start on Monday 27 February and run from 8.00am to 7.30pm on Monday through to Friday, and 9.00am to 2.00pm on Saturday. 

Fares start from only $1.15 for concession card holders and children under 5 travel free when accompanied by a parent or carer.

The service is being funded by a $161,720 grant through Transport for NSW’s Transport Access Regional Partnerships (TARP) grant program in response to community feedback.

It will run as a 12-month trial until February 2024, with the option of extending the program.